Ultimate three Week Tour of Sri Lanka's Highlights

This tour starts in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

You will likely arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, located about 146 km away from Sigiriya. From the airport you can take a bus, taxi or rental car to Sigiriya.

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1 night

day 1 — day 2

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Sigiriya

History UNESCO

When King Kashyapa overthrew the ruler of Sri Lanka, his own father, and ran the throne’s heir out of town in 477 CE, Sigiriya became his refuge. This giant rock formation at one time consisted of a whole city within the rock. Kashyapa enjoyed multiple gardens within his complex and today, Sigiriya is one of the oldest and most well-persevered examples of ancient urban planning. This impenetrable kingdom had one entrance: a 1,200-step staircase surrounded by the claws of a massive lion carved in the rock.

1

day 2

0.5 hr · 18 km

Sigiriya

Dambulla

Driving

Take a taxi or a private transport from Sigiriya to Dambulla.

0.5 hr · 18 km · $31.00

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1 night

day 2 — day 3

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Dambulla

City History UNESCO

Dambulla is a city in Sri Lanka that doesn’t bring in the same masses of tourists that many other sites and cities in the country do. The upside of this is that it maintains a very local feel, has authentic food to try, and is less crowded. Despite being a less-traveled destination, Dambulla offers a wide range of activities and sites to see. The city’s most notable attraction is the Dambulla Cave Temple which is made up of 5 caves that visitors can explore.

2

day 3

3 hrs · 74 km

Dambulla

Kandy

Bus

Travel from Dambulla to Kandy by bus directly.

3 hrs · 74 km · $1.00

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2 nights

day 3 — day 5

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Kandy

City History UNESCO

The second-largest city in Sri Lanka, Kandy, is the last capital of the ancient kings' dynasty in the country, which helps to explain the vast amount of historical, cultural, and religious sites which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. Visiting Kandy will surely leave you spoilt for choice as you decide whether to trek through the gorgeous green mountains, go back in time by visiting one of the museums, or take a relaxing stroll through the many parks and gardens that this lively city has to offer.

Experience the Sanctity of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Located in Kandy’s magnificent Royal Palace Complex, which is historically known to be the former Kingdom of Kandy and home to the Sinhalese Kings, this sacred temple is home to the most precious Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka – Buddha’s tooth, which is believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century and is kept hidden away in a golden casket. Overlooking the silky-smooth Kandy Lake, the temple is beautifully designed with a gold roof and stunning interior bringing a sense of tranquility to Kandy.

Dance the Night Away at a Kandyan Dance Show

Kandyan dancing plays an important role in Sri Lankan culture and traditional dances are usually passed down from generation to generation. The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a popular Sri Lankan Arts, Dance & Cultural Heritage show. Witness remarkable performances that bring together all Sri Lankan dance types which are unique to each area on the island. Traditional Kandyan dances are performed using drums and decorative costumes. Become fascinated by the dancers’ mysterious movements of the cobra, colorful performance of the peacock and the impressive fire dance.

Take a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya or Ella

Travelling by train is a great way to experience Sri Lanka and the scenic route between Kandy and Ella (via Nuwara Eliya) is rated as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world! You will pass charming villages and have sweeping views of the lush green tea plantations nestled against the steep hills of the region. There are several trains running each day and you can usually buy your tickets at the station office the same day. If you want to make sure you get your preferred seat (especially on weekends and holidays) we recommend booking online. Tip: For the best view, choose a seat on the right side of the train.

Train to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya Station) ^{Partner link}

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3

3 nights

day 5 — day 8

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Nuwara Eliya

Hiking

This small city, set in the beautiful green hills of Sri Lanka, is packed with things to do and see. Thanks to its very temperate weather, it was a popular place for British settlers to build getaway cottages for their holiday trips. This popularity has continued to this day, making it a haven with quaint markets, a lake that visitors can jet ski on, many hikes within the hills, and tea plantations to explore. There’s no shortage of activities in Nuwara Eliya, but it can also serve as a relaxing escape.

4

4 nights

day 8 — day 12

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Ella

Hiking Instagram Spot Waterfall

This quaint little village rests on the side of a mountain in south-central Sri Lanka and is the perfect pit stop on your Sri Lanka itinerary. Although the town itself is small, you’ll still need a few days in order to explore the main attraction of Ella: the gorgeous surrounding landscape. You can hike to famous sights, do some exhilarating zip-lining, and get some great tours in, all using the small village of Ella as a basecamp.

5

day 12

4.5 hrs · 136 km

Ella

Udawalawe National Park

Bus

Travel from Ella to Udawalawe National Park using a combination of two bus transfers.

4.5 hrs · 136 km · $3.00

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2 nights

day 12 — day 14

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Udawalawe National Park

Animals National park

Despite being a relatively small island, Sri Lanka is home to a remarkable 22 national parks and a visit to this beautiful island isn’t complete without taking a trip to Udawalawe National Park. The park was established in 1972 to provide a sanctuary for wild animals. As you are driven through the park you'll be completely blown away by its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. The park flaunts open plains, scrublands, wetlands, and mountainous areas. Catch elephants grazing on flat grasslands and taking a drink from the Udawalawe Reservoir.

6

day 14

4 hrs · 100 km

Udawalawe National Park

Mirissa Beach

Bus

Travel from Udawalawe National Park to Mirissa Beach using a combination of three bus transfers.

4 hrs · 100 km · $2.00

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3 nights

day 14 — day 17

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Mirissa Beach

Animals Beach Snorkeling

A beautiful small town on the south coast of Sri Lanka, Mirissa is renowned for being the home to the largest whale on earth – the blue whale, which makes it the perfect location for whale watching. Mirissa offers travelers an incredible experience of whale and dolphin watching, great nightlife, and a vibrant atmosphere attracting tourists from all over the world.

7

day 17

1.5 hrs · 35 km

Mirissa Beach

Galle

Bus

Travel from Mirissa Beach to Galle by bus directly.

1.5 hrs · 35 km · $1.00

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2 nights

day 17 — day 19

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Galle

Beach City History UNESCO

This charming old-style city in Sri Lanka is surrounded on all sides by a wall that locks in the city’s character and charm. It’s a great day visit but can also be done in a couple of days if you want to soak up the magic of this adorable place. The streets are lined with Dutch architecture and there’s a colorful scene around every corner. At dusk, the whole city stops and enjoys the sunset from the wall surrounding the town.

8

This tour ends in Galle, Sri Lanka

You will likely depart from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, located about 152 km away from Galle. To get to the airport, you can take a taxi or rental car, bus or train.

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Sri Lanka 19 days Itinerary